Texas Tech University MS Graduate Research Assistantship 2026 | Grassland Fire Ecology & Remote Sensing

Texas Tech University MS Graduate Research Assistantship 2026 | Grassland Fire Ecology & Remote Sensing: Overview

Texas Tech University (TTU) is inviting applications for an MS Graduate Research Assistantship to work on an NSF-funded project examining grassland wildfire behavior in the Southern Great Plains. The research focuses on how fuel attributes influence fire dynamics, using remote sensing, experimental burns, and collaboration with a fire-focused network of scientists and land managers.

This opportunity offers hands-on experience in fire ecology, remote sensing, and ecological research collaboration, making it ideal for students passionate about applied environmental science.

Texas Tech University MS Graduate Research Assistantship 2026 | Grassland Fire Ecology & Remote Sensing: Eligibility

• Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in ecology, environmental science, natural resources, or a related field.

• No prior professional experience required, but:

  • Remote sensing and/or fire ecology experience is desirable.

  • Strong demonstrated interest in one of these areas is required.

• Open to domestic and international students (tuition remission provided).

Benefits

• Annual stipend: Starting at $19,000.

• Full tuition remission.

• Generous benefits package.

• Hands-on fieldwork in the Southern Great Plains.

• Collaboration with a multi-university research team (TTU, CU Boulder, University of Illinois).

Fellowship/Program Components

• Research focus: Grassland fire behavior & fuel dynamics.

• Key tasks:

  • Predicting fuel characteristics at regional scales via remote sensing.

  • Assisting with experimental prescribed burns.

  • Participating in a fire management and science network.

• Collaboration with faculty:

  • Dr. Nathan Gill (TTU, LEAF Lab)

  • Dr. Dylan Schwilk (TTU)

  • Dr. Katie Suding (University of Colorado Boulder)

  • Dr. Jon Henn (University of Illinois)

Application Requirements

Applicants should prepare and submit the following to nathan.gill@ttu.edu:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV) with contact details of three references.

2. Unofficial transcript.

3. Cover letter explaining research interests and fit for the project.

Selection Criteria

• Academic background in ecology, natural resources, environmental science, or a related field.

• Demonstrated interest in fire ecology and/or remote sensing.

• Potential to contribute meaningfully to fieldwork and research collaboration.

• Commitment to academic and professional growth in ecological sciences.

Application Process

• Submit all required documents to nathan.gill@ttu.edu.

• Applications reviewed until October 31, 2025.

• Start date: Flexible between January – September 2026.

Key Dates

• Application Deadline: October 31, 2025

• Start Date: After June 1, 2026 (flexible through September)